Ai & Innovation Program Manager

The Weitz Company / Contrack Watts, Inc.•Des Moines, IA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Ai & Innovation Program Manager executes innovative and operational improvement initiatives at the business unit or project level, integrating new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (Ai), into core business operations to enhance operational efficiency. This role translates strategic direction from Operational Excellence (OpEx) and the Ai & Innovation Council into practical, scalable solutions that enhance safety, efficiency and project delivery across geographically diverse teams. The Ai & Innovation Program Manager reports to the Director of OpEx. This is an office based role, location open to work in one of our offices across the United States.

Requirements

Education: An industry related bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in construction management, engineering, IT, VDC or BIM management. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered. Advanced coursework or certifications in Ai, data analytics or innovation preferred.
Experience: A minimum of eight (8) years in a construction-related industry role; a minimum of three (3) years in a construction technology or innovation role with demonstrated experience successfully implementing AI or advanced technology solutions. Exposure to both construction field and project environments, and enterprise-level technology programs, is required. Lean principles experience is desirable. OSHA 30 preferred, or the willingness to obtain upon hire.
Technology: Proficiency in basic computer software programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Employee should have solid familiarity with AI tools and platforms (i.e. generated-AI, agents, pattern recognition) and data visualization tools (Power BI preferred), and ability to translate capabilities into practical operational applications. Understanding of cybersecurity and data governance best practices, and ability to learn navigation of project management/scheduling software (i.e. Procore, Bluebeam, scheduling software) is necessary.
Skills: A qualified candidate will demonstrate strong analytical, business acumen, self-motivation, relationship building and decision-making abilities while presenting excellent verbal and written communication and training and facilitation skills. This role should also have the ability to develop and present business cases for technology adoption and return on investment in all facets of the business, have proven ability to lead and implement change management activities, engage stakeholders and drive influence.

Nice To Haves

Advanced coursework or certifications in Ai, data analytics or innovation preferred.
Lean principles experience is desirable.
OSHA 30 preferred, or the willingness to obtain upon hire.

Responsibilities

Partner with Ai & Innovation Council to evaluate proposed solutions and make recommendations on approval to advance in alignment with the company’s strategic direction; lead implementation of approved solutions, managing entirety of process from concept to execution of pilot programming or training
Manage transition of pilot programming or training solutions to appropriate stakeholders by establishing defined metrics, evaluating program feedback, and determining scalable solutions
Execute the company’s AI and innovation roadmap, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and incorporating feedback from the AI and Innovation Council
Coordinate with cross-functional teams to integrate new technologies, tools and workflows, supporting communication, training plan and change management efforts, as appropriate
Design and facilitate AI literacy and innovation-focused training programs and interactive workshops; curate role-specific content developed in partnership with SMEs, Learning and Development and other stakeholders
Simplify complex technology or operational concepts into practical, accessible applications for field and office teams
Partner with IT to ensure initiatives conform to company and insurance security protocols and requirements; ensure federal, state and local laws and regulations are upheld as appropriate
Recommend updates to standard operating procedures to ensure data accuracy, compatibility, compliance and best practices are applied
Identify and monitor KPIs for pilot projects; track and translate trends, assessment findings and opportunities for improvements to strengthen future programs and overall effectiveness
Maintain and continuously update companywide repository of best practices, lessons learned and success stories related to AI and innovation initiatives; ensure resources are regularly incorporated into training modules and accessible to employees
Provide input and guidance on safety, schedule, cost, quality and risk opportunities as they relate to AI and innovation initiatives
Attend and participate in industry forums and partnerships focused on AI and construction innovation; stay abreast of emerging industry trends to ensure the company remains market competitive
Collaborate with Learning and Development, Human Resources, VDC and Operations teams to integrate content into training platforms, optimize delivery methods, engrain into onboarding and promotional practices and expand KPI reach
Lead cross-functional project teams as needed, including delegation of tasks, coordination of efforts and offering mentorship
Moderate travel will be required to visit construction project sites and regional offices to observe operations, lead training sessions and support implementation
Perform other duties as assigned